The question caught Kalista off guard. Xander looked more serious than he ever had when confronting her about her actions. This time, he wasn’t just angry—he looked terrified.No, not just terrified. Tired.“I don’t recall doing anything that would make you look at me like that!” she snapped. “Besides, what could happen that’s so serious?”Xander’s teeth clenched. He couldn’t believe she was still acting this way, even with everything about to collapse around them.“Hah.” He sighed, looking away and ruffling his hair in frustration.This was all his fault. If he hadn’t let her leave the academy and come back, none of this would’ve happened. She would’ve stayed out of trouble. Out of his trouble.“Is this about those couples I messed with?” Kalista asked, shrugging with indifference. “Don’t be so paranoid. I know everyone in the elite society, and they’re *definitely* not part of it. Even if their families have a little money, it’s not enough to go against the Marino family. If they co

"Ah, this gala... It’s very fancy, eh? So much sparkle—like the stars in Roma!" a man said, straightening his jacket, eyes dancing with pride. "You see the chandeliers? Mamma mia, even my nonna would be impressed. And she doesn’t impress easily.""Giovanni," came a sigh beside him. "Can you focus? We’re not here for the lights."Giovanni Castelli turned toward the voice—his cousin, Alessia, ever the serious one. She adjusted her gloves as they stood near the grand entrance, their family crest subtly pinned to her silk sash."Eh, Alessia, you never change," he said, flashing a grin. "Always thinking with your head. Try using your heart for once. That’s how you enjoy life.""We’re here on business," she reminded him sharply.Giovanni Castelli, early thirties, had wavy dark hair, playful hazel eyes, and a sleek build. He carried himself in a sharp blue tuxedo with the Castelli crest on his lapel like a man born to charm—and used to getting his way.His cousin wasn’t an exception. Alessia